Now enrolling for the updated 2026 SFJ Awards course — no final exam required when you train with UKPITA. We’re the only UK provider offering the latest syllabus.
Now enrolling for the updated 2026 SFJ Awards course — no final exam required when you train with UKPITA. We’re the only UK provider offering the latest syllabus.
Gain your SFJ Awards Level 3 qualification and real-world skills to launch your career as a professional private investigator.
At the UK Private Investigator Training Academy (UKPITA), we don’t aim to be the cheapest. We aim to offer the best value for those serious about building a career in private investigation.
Our nationally recognised SFJ Awards Level 3 Award for Professional Investigators is delivered face-to-face by experienced tutors and goes far beyond the basics.
We combine accredited learning with practical insights drawn from real cases, giving you the skills, knowledge, and confidence to work in the field or launch your own agency.
Our course goes well beyond the standard 34 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) now required by the updated 2026 SFJ Awards syllabus.
You’ll receive:
Training is led by former police officers, each with extensive investigative backgrounds. You’ll also benefit from the support of working field agents from our partner agencies:
Together, our team ensures that classroom learning translates into practical, real-world preparation.
Please note: Full joining instructions, including accepted ID documentation, will be provided upon enrolment.
By successfully completing the course, you’ll be awarded the SFJ Awards Level 3 Award for Professional Investigators, having completed the full accredited curriculum and passed the official assessments.
This nationally recognised qualification is aligned with the expected SIA licensing requirements, putting you ahead of the curve in a profession moving toward formal regulation.
Our revised 2026 course is delivered face-to-face over four immersive days, providing 36 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) — exceeding the SFJ Awards’ minimum requirement of 34 hours.
Course Breakdown
Day 1: Planning and Reporting Investigations
Welcome and introductions
Law, Legislation, Ethics and Codes of Conduct
Investigation Processes, Sources and Regulations
Purpose and Information Needs of Investigations
Feasibility, Relationships and Conflicts
Day 2: Planning and Reporting Investigations
Report Types and Requirements
Day 3: Planning and Reporting Investigations
Communication and Interviewing
Day 4: Information Management for Investigations
Research and Analysis
This timetable is based on the most recent version of the SFJ Awards Level 3 curriculum. Final course details may be subject to change following the official release of the 2026 specification in December.
*GLH refers to Guided Learning Hours. GLH are all times when a member of provider staff is present to give specific guidance towards the learning aim being studied on the programme. The definition includes examinations, lectures, tutorials and supervised study. The total recommended GLH for the SFJ Awards Level 3 award is 34 hours- 25 for Unit 1 and 9 for Unit 2. This course timetable delivers 36 hours of GLH- 27 for Unit 1 and 9 for Unit 2.
UKPITA is the only accredited UK provider offering this depth of in-person, tutor-led private investigator training. Our aim is to develop a new generation of professional investigators equipped with the technical knowledge, legal understanding, and business acumen needed to thrive in a multi-million-pound UK industry.
The UK is witnessing a significant rise in demand for private security and investigation services, fuelled by growing concerns around safety, fraud, and data protection. This surge mirrors global trends and reflects the evolving landscape of risk management in the country.
According to London Daily News (October 2025), the UK private security services market is now valued at £8.9 billion, with continued growth driven by both physical and technological security needs.
"The UK is witnessing a significant increase in demand for private security and investigation services, driven by rising concerns over safety, fraud, and data protection. This surge reflects broader global trends and highlights the evolving landscape of risk management in the country. Market Growth and Industry Trends, The UK private security services market is experiencing robust growth. In 2025, the market size is estimated at £8.9 billion, reflecting a steady increase in demand for both physical and technological security solutions…”
Are you ready to join them? Limited spaces available on our April 2026 course.
Get in touch with our team to find out more about course content, funding options, or next steps.
